10 Window Sash Repairs Tricks Experts Recommend

Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the Sash window Repair it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and sash window repair hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window repairs. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.